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When you are shopping for a new home in Florida, it is smart to have everything inspected. You can also examine any plumbing concerns yourself before you finish the deal and move in if you know what to look for.

If you are intending on doing the plumbing inspection yourself, make an appointment with the owner or agent that is showing the home and show up ready. Be sure you are dressed for the occasion - clothes that you don't mind getting wet or dirty - and don't forget to bring a flashlight.

A genuine seller will not mind you taking a peek around to be sure you are verifying the accuracy of the home's state of repair (or disrepair). So once, you have set up the appointment and are prepared to do your inspection look for the following points:

Find the home's water meter and be sure the shut-off valve to the water supply to the house is in solid working order. If the home is supplied with well water, the shut-off valve should be located inside the home, probably under the kitchen sink, but could be found elsewhere.

If the home was built before 1986, find out if there is any lead or galvanized plumbing. Lead no matter how helpful it may seem, is an environmental toxin. If you have kids, you may want to avoid living in a house with lead pipes.

Find out the size of the water pipes, which will define the water pressure you will have. For adequate water pressure, the lines should be ¾" to one inch from the primary water source. The pipes should be at least a half inch in diameter for sufficient water flow.

Always inspect the home's water heater. Be sure to decide if it is big enough to meet the needs of your family. For a family of four, you need to search for at least a 40-gallon tank. Look at where it is located and determine it's age. Look closely to determine if there is any mineral buildup if possible. Corrosion of the elements of the tank can cause shorter life. If the water heater is old or visible signs of corrosion are noticed, request a new one be installed before buying the home.

Find out if the home is on a septic system or on a municipal water system. For a septic system, find out where the septic system is located and ask the owner when the septic tank was last serviced. Look for signs of seepage or standing water and any odor.

Check for drips and turn on all faucets to be sure they are working correctly. For these and other plumbing inspection tips or a professional and thorough plumbing inspection contact Kost Plumbing today.

Unless you’re a plumber, you may not even know the difference between PEX Piping and Copper, or which piping is better for your home. Here, we hope to increase your basic knowledge of these plumbing options to help you know what you’re getting and if it’s what you truly want. Once you’ve got the basics down, you’ll know what to request from your plumber and why.

Let’s start with what PEX Piping is. PEX Piping is basically cross linked polyethylene pipe. What this means is that after the material goes through several processes, it becomes durable enough to handle extreme hot or cold temperatures and what’s called “creep deformation” (that occurs from extended exposure to stress). It also resists chemical attacks from alkalines, acids and other toxins. These factors all make PEX piping an excellent piping solution for cold and hot water plumbing systems. PEX piping is also very flexible and adapts effortlessly to temperatures from below freezing all the way up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

PEX Piping is also better for your budget. It’s an easy material for your plumber to install and with its crack resistance and fewer joints, it brings your plumbing costs down. It has fewer fittings, less chance of leaks can be used along with metal or PVC Piping, and can have a pressure balancing system.

Now Copper: On the beneficial side, Copper resists corrosion and is not affected by ultraviolet rays, which means it can be useful for outside plumbing needs. This differs from PEX pipes, which can be affected by ultraviolet rays and therefore should usually not be used outside. On the downside, however, copper will corrode from the pH of the water if the water becomes too acidic or too basic for the copper pipes.

Copper piping can freeze and break during winter weather, it has become more expensive and more difficult to install, raising your plumbing costs and with corrosion, the higher levels of copper seeping into your water will give your water a metallic taste.

ourWe hope that these comparisons have given you a better basic understanding and knowledge of the differences between PEX and copper piping, giving you the opportunity to make the best decision for yourself. If you have any questions about PEX, please give Kost Plumbing a call.

Home maintenance is a required part of owning and renting a home. One of the most overlooked things is something that’s often out of sight, out of mind; it’s your gutters! Here you will discover just how regularly to keep your gutters clean and why it’s so important to keep them that way. This will insure you never have to worry about fixing any faulty, too-stuffed gutters again!

When is the right time to clean my gutters?

A good rule of thumb is to make sure you clear your gutter at least twice a year. Best times to do this would be springtime and then near the end of summer/beginning of fall. After the rainy seasons hit, you’re going to want to clean out your gutters. Different types of trees in the yard may require a bit more maintenance, such as pine trees being present could result in cleaning your gutters every three months rather than twice a years.

What’s the big deal about cleaning gutters anyway? Isn’t the rain supposed to flush it all out eventually?

Your gutters work like any typical drain type system, and if a backup is present, it can cause issues for your gutters and even your roof. A backed-up gutter can cause weight to build up on the roof and trap moisture, potentially starting a leak in certain parts of the roof. This type of debris build up in your gutters can also cause water damage to the interior and exterior of the walls, causing lifts in paneling or other wall fixtures and creating unsightly future issues that could have easily been avoided with a biannual cleaning.

Keeping your gutters clean can save you a lot of hassle in the long run. It can be a pain, but thankfully it’s a pain that only has to occur twice a year in most cases. A clean gutter keeps a home happy!

A running toilet can strike a mild panic in any homeowner, worried that a repair may be soon to follow. Chances are a running toilet can be easily fixed without making an emergency call to a plumber. Here you’ll find a few quick tips to stop that constant running of your toilet before it becomes a bigger problem.

Check your tubes. Sometimes the fill tube can become loose or come out of the overflow tube. Checking the tubing makes sure the fill tube is fastened tightly to the valve and is placed inside the overflow tube.

Along with the tubes, check your flapper. If the flapper isn’t closed, water will continuously leak into the bowl. The cause of this could be something obstructing the closure of the flapper or a chain that is too short to allow it to fully close.

Adjust the fill height in the tank. If this height is set too high, it causes an overflow in the tank and creates that nonstop running noise. Adjust your levels until the noise goes away and make a note of the fill level mark.

Replace old flappers and chains, and you’ll notice a world of difference. A universal model will be the best bet, and all that’s needed for the installation is a pair of pliers and the new pieces.

Following any of these steps will save you from calling a local plumbing service. But just in case none of the above can fix your problem, set an appointment with a plumber as soon as possible to get to fixing your porcelain.

If you live in Florida, chances are you or someone you know dealt with damage to their home thanks to Hurricane Irma. Hurricane Irma was so large that it covered the entire state at one point, with varying degrees of severity. A lot of homes made it out unscathed and just dealt with annoying power outages, but some were not so lucky. From missing shingles to missing entire roofs and walls, home repairs are a top priority to getting things back to normal after Hurricane Irma.

Some spent days preparing for Irma to hit, cleaning out grocery stores and lumber yards for provisions and protection. But bottled water and plywood can only do so much for so long. One of the first steps in returning to some normalcy after a chaotic storm like Irma is to assess the damage. This should be done by a licensed contractor, as not everyone is trained to see hidden danger/damages that aren’t easily visible.

Make sure you document all damages done to property after a hurricane. Irma hit hard in heavily wooded areas in Florida (Ocala National Forest was near the eyewall while Irma made her way north), causing many trees to come down. As long as it is safe to do so, and the area has been assessed by a professional or first responder first, take pictures of damage done to homes to apply to repairs and insurance claims later on.

One of the most common issues/repairs after a hurricane is flooding. Irma ended with causing major property damage with potential for mold. Another problem with this is any appliances that have come into contact with the flooding damage. This could hold a high risk for electrical shock or fire that could cause even more damage to the home. Keep electricity turned off in rooms where flooding has occurred and until repairs can be made to the affected area.

Besides flooding, another elemental danger wreaks havoc during (and usually the day after) a hurricane, wind. Wind is what causes the most damage because of the high speeds and shear force. It can rip an entire roof clean off a home, and take out a few other pieces of the house on its way. This is one of the more time-consuming fixes that will require the use of the licensed contractor and home repair people if it can’t be done DIY.

After a hurricane the likes of Irma, it can be a very stressful time. But with the right knowledge and professional help, your life will be back to normal, and your home will look better than ever. And hopefully even be able to withstand whatever else Mother Nature has to offer!

It’s no secret and a fast-growing trend for more seniors to choose to remain living at home instead of moving into assisted living facilities or nursing homes. Seniors who make this decision often rightfully do so to maintain their dignity and independence.

When performing a bathroom remodel for the elderly, it is vital to make changes that allow free movement through the bathroom without the risks of slips and falls. You’ll want to take a look at a variety of option from walk-in bathtubs and showers to grab bars, lighting and more.

Statistics from the CDC show that approximately 235,000 individuals seek medical attention from bathroom related injuries annually. For the elderly, remodeling for safety should always come first.

Some plumbing retrofit ideas for bathroom safety include walk-in bathtubs, fixed showerheads, handheld showerheads with an adjustable setting and relaxing whirlpool jets. When you go shopping for a walk in bathtub or shower, be sure to inquire whether these features are included or can be added by a plumber before you purchase.

Senior-friendly toilets (also called chair height toilets) give the elderly the freedom to lower and raise their body using minimum effort. Special lift chairs are also available that help lift and lower.

Height adjustments to existing bathroom appliances can also significantly enhance ease of use for seniors. Lowering the sink or toilet makes a substantial difference, and if the person is in a wheelchair, always be sure there is enough knee clearance to comfortably go to and from the sink.

Kitchen renovations are high on the list of most expensive home-improvement projects, but it is entirely possible to give your tired kitchen new life without breaking the bank. At the most basic, new paint and cabinet hardware freshen the look; while at the high end, upgraded cabinets and appliances within the original framework save the expense and hassle of moving plumbing and electrical lines. So, if changing trends or normal wear and tear means it’s time for a “kitchen -lift," here are a few simple and affordable upgrade ideas from thisoldhouse.com:

Cabinets

Sturdy wood cabinets are often worth saving. To change the look:

Change hardware: Replacing knobs, pulls, and hinges cost as little as a few dollars per door. Make sure the new hardware matches the existing hole locations.

Paint: A coat of paint can brighten up old cabinets and cheer up the whole room. (Metal cabinets can be sent out to an autobody shop for a durable refinishing.) The cost of a professional paint job: about $35 to $85 per linear foot.

Reface: Refacing can make cabinets look brand new. First, doors and drawer fronts are removed, and all exterior surfaces are covered with a veneer of prefinished wood in whatever species and finish you prefer. Then new doors and drawer fronts are made to match. Make sure to hire a reputable company, and only after you've seen examples of its work. Cost: approximately $125 to $325 per linear foot, depending on the type of veneer and the method of installation.

Change doors: It's possible to replace just the panels on cabinet doors. Decorative filler panel options include glass (clear, etched, tinted, patterned, stained) and metal (stainless steel or punched or patterned tin). Simply use a router to cut away the existing panel and rout a lip on the back of the door to hold the new panel. Replacement panels typically cost from $100 to $250 per door. Other options include removing the doors altogether (free!) for an open-shelf look or replacing them with new doors ($100 to $400 per door).

Add moldings: Wood moldings and trim add character to plain cabinet fronts. If your old cabinets don't go to the ceiling, adding a crown molding or soffit around the top will make a room look more elegant. Cost: about $15 per linear foot, unfinished.

If you’ve noticed unexplained cracks in your home and office that appear to be growing larger every day, it’s likely these cracks in your walls or pavement are only a small sign of a much bigger problem - below your feet. Foundation problems can undermine the infrastructure of a home or commercial building. Foundation plumbing leaks or slab leaks have been known to literally tear building structures apart slowly over the course of years before an owner suspects anything.

Symptoms of foundation or slab leaks include:

Foundation movement

Cracking walls

Buckling floors

Floor damage

Doors Sticking

Frequently Asked Questions:

How did my foundation reach this point?Unstable soil conditions can account for a huge portion of your foundation problems. Land movement shifts loose sand and dirt that causes stress on fresh water and drains line systems. This causes sub-slab pipes to stress, separate, snap, or leaks underground allowing water to seep through and unsettle the foundation. Root intrusion from surrounding large trees can also cause unnecessary stress and pressure to underground plumbing.

Why should I care about a foundation problem?Foundation problems can create detrimental complications to your entire building structure. Left untreated, symptoms grow more and more destructive to entire residential or commercial infrastructures. These problems cost thousands of dollars in foundation restoration for homes or businesses. Health risks for building occupants also occur due to contamination from broken sewers and leaking drain pipes.

How can you locate a foundation problem?A thorough inspection of your underground plumbing can avoid continuous slab movement orto rule out plumbing leaks as a culprit for your shifty foundation. We specialize in diagnostic testing of sub-slab plumbing for residential and commercial properties. Our electronic listening and hydrostatic pressure tests find all breaks, leaks, and clogs in water systems and sanitary sewer systems. We can even determine the exact amount of fluid lost beneath slab during normal conditions.

Summer is the perfect time for grilling out, taking a dip in a cool refreshing swimming pool, and (of course) home improvement projects. If you’re wondering where to start on that last issue, here are a few ideas to get you started:

Pressure Washing: In all of its glorious splendor of the sunshine and refreshing dips in the pool, Summer also brings with it the downside of moisture, mildew and a stark reminder that it’s time to pressure wash. A good pressure washing at the beginning of summer eliminates months of buildup, residue, dirt, and grime that find their way into the exterior walls, ground surfaces, roof, and paint. Professional pressure washing addresses these issues at their source - preventing lots of potential future issues.

Siding Replacement: Even with regular pressure washing, sealing, and maintenance, your home’s siding can break down and needs replacement. Weather, wear and tear, and just general use understandably take their toll on your home’s siding, and there’s no better time than Summer to take a good look at your siding and determine what needs to be replaced.

Drain your Water Heater: Regularly draining your water heater not only prolongs the life of your tank but also increases the ability of your water heater to heat up water to the right level. Draining your water heater gets rid of built-up sediment and decreases the amount of heat transfer needed to reach the heat exchanger.

Prepare for Winter: Preparing your plumbing, walls, roof and any other home improvement project for winter is best done in Summer. Regardless of where you live, the damage caused by winter freezes wreak havoc not only on your plumbing, wiring or structures but also on your bank account - in the form of repair costs that you could have prevented by performing Summer maintenance.

Break ground on your home improvement projects this summer and enjoy your peace of mind for the rest of the year!

Liquid-Plumr and Drano contain caustic ingredients that eat away at your pipes and irritate your lungs. They’re also terrible for the environment. The chemical smell drifting from your drain is a dead giveaway that tells your plumber you’ve been using these products. So, what’s the solution when Drano just doesn’t do the trick for clearing your clogged drain?

The most effective and long term solution for unclogging drains and pipes is snaking. This physically breaks up the clog and gets the water to properly flow through. A plumber's snake is a slender, flexible auger used to dislodge clogs in plumbing. The plumber's snake is often reserved for difficult clogs that cannot be loosened with a plunger. It is also sometimes called a toilet jack.

The most powerful form of snaking is performed by a drum auger. A drum auger is a motorized auger with modular blades designed for various gauges of pipe. A drum auger is powerful enough to cut through tree roots. Used unskillfully, they can also damage plastic pipework and even copper tubing. Plumbing snakes with the capacity of a drum auger should always be left in the hands of a professional plumber.

Any leak is a bad leak when it comes to plumbing, so when in doubt, it’s safe to assume that if you find a foundation crack, there may be a slab leak behind it. While the best route is always to assume a crack should be addressedorder to prevent a bigger problem, here are some tell-tale signs that your foundation crack is the sign of a slab leak:

Hissing, splashing noises with no open taps: If you hear water is running somewhere, check your house thoroughly inside and out to see if someone left a tap dripping. If all taps are tightly closed, and youre still hear the sound, try to find the exact location of the sound and call a plumber to come to perform a slab leak video inspection.

Your floor is warm without a floor heater: this could indicate that a warm water line is leaking beneath your slab - which can mean there is a much bigger problem. A warm spot on the floor usually means that water has started to gather. This water causes moisture, mildew and dangerous mold to form beneath your carpets.

If you notice cracks in your tile floors or bubbles in your linoleum floors: these may indicate a leaking pipe.

Ruptures in the walls: a slab leak can trigger the entire wall to move. If the wall moves, your entire house is affected, including walls and floors nowhere near the leak.

Swimming pool consistently losing water - there may be a leak.

If your water pressure suddenly drops to low, could be an indicator of a slab leak. It is common for slab leaks to occur where the water enters your home from the outside. Even a tiny leak in your water line can significantly lower your water pressure.

Sudden increase in water bill - Small holes from slab leaks are capable of leaking more than 10,000 gallons of water in just one month, causing your water bill to rise significantly. .Check to be sure that all of your taps (as well as your washing machine and toilet) are tightly shut off and take a look at your water meter. If the dial is still moving, you most likely have a leak.

Kitchen renovations are high on the list of most expensive home-improvement projects, but it is entirely possible to give your tired kitchen new life without breaking the bank. At the most basic, new paint and cabinet hardware freshen the look; while at the high end, upgraded cabinets and appliances within the original framework save the expense and hassle of moving plumbing and electrical lines. So, if changing trends or normal wear and tear means it’s time for a “kitchen -lift," here are a few simple and affordable upgrade ideas from thisoldhouse.com:

CABINETS

Sturdy wood cabinets are often worth saving. To change the look:

Change hardware: Replacing knobs, pulls, and hinges cost as little as a few dollars per door. Make sure the new hardware matches the existing hole locations.

Paint: A coat of paint can brighten up old cabinets and cheer up the whole room. (Metal cabinets can be sent out to an autobody shop for a durable refinishing.) The cost of a professional paint job: about $35 to $85 per linear foot.

Reface: Refacing can make cabinets look brand new. First, doors and drawer fronts are removed, and all exterior surfaces are covered with a veneer of prefinished wood in whatever species and finish you prefer. Then new doors and drawer fronts are made to match. Make sure to hire a reputable company, and only after you've seen examples of its work. Cost: approximately $125 to $325 per linear foot, depending on the type of veneer and the method of installation.

Change doors: It's possible to replace just the panels on cabinet doors. Decorative filler panel options include glass (clear, etched, tinted, patterned, stained) and metal (stainless steel or punched or patterned tin). Simply use a router to cut away the existing panel and rout a lip on the back of the door to hold the new panel. Replacement panels typically cost from $100 to $250 per door. Other options include removing the doors altogether (free!) for an open-shelf look or replacing them with new doors ($100 to $400 per door).

Add moldings: Wood moldings and trim add character to plain cabinet fronts. If your old cabinets don't go to the ceiling, adding a crown molding or soffit around the top will make a room look more elegant. Cost: about $15 per linear foot, unfinished.

Upgrade interiors: Slide-out shelves, tilt-trays, lazy Susans, drawer dividers, and full-extension drawer glides can be retrofitted to your old boxes. Cost: $1,000 to $3,000 for a full kitchen.

APPLIANCES

For good appliances in need of rejuvenation, choices include:

Reface: Some refrigerators and dishwashers are designed with frames to hold face panels — typically a stainless steel sheet or a wood panel. Replacement panels cost from $100 to $800, depending on the size of the appliance and the material. Even if the appliance doesn't have a frame, panel kits (including frames, panels, and handles) can be custom-ordered for just about any make and model of appliance, in a variety of materials (www.frigodesign.com). Cost: $175 to $1,000 per appliance. Replacements for worn-out stove knobs, burner plates, and glass cooktops can also be ordered from the manufacturer.

Paint: If you have a high-end appliance or an antique that's lost its luster, metal surfaces can be painted by an appliance refinisher or an autobody shop for about $100 (for an oven door or dishwasher panel) to $300 (for a whole fridge). Porcelain stoves can be porcelainized by an appliance or bathtub refinisher for about $100 for a single oven door and roughly $1,200 for an entire range.

FLOORS

To givean an old floor new life, you can:

Resurface: Refinish an existing wood floor and stain it a different color or add stenciled borders ($550 to $700 for refinishing a 200-square-foot kitchen; a simple border might cost an additional $200 to $1,000). Stone flooring can be professionally polished to bring back its original luster.

Cover: If the floor is sound and flat, you may be able to cover linoleum or wood with a coat of flooring primer and paint, or a layer of stick-down vinyl tiles or sheet flooring. Cost: about $200 for paint, $500 for vinyl.

COUNTERTOPS

Nothing changes the look of a kitchen quicker than sprucing up countertops. Here's how:

Resurface: Stripping an old laminate countertop off the plywood deck is fairly simple; installing new laminate costs about $30 to $40 per linear foot. Ceramic tiles can also be installed over existing plywood. And if your solid surface or stone countertop is showing its age, the surface can be professionally polished to remove the marks.

Add moldings: To dress up a laminate countertop, add molding around the front edge for about $5 per linear foot.

Replace just a section: If you don't want to rip out the whole countertop, consider recessing a different material, such as a chopping block, into part of an existing counter.

Add a backsplash: If you're not replacing countertops, you can change the backsplash. Good choices: laminates, ceramic or glass tile, beadboard, even metal ceiling squares.

You turn on your faucet and crystal clear water flows freely from it’s home (groundwater from the Floridan Aquifer) to its final destination: your shower, sink or drinking glass. But, before it makes it that far, it goes through a rigorous and well-regulated, multi-step process to assure that the water you’re drinking is truly as clean and pure as it appears.

Jeff Halcomb has been the director of the Water and Sewer Department for the City of Ocala since 2008. He explains that our drinking water in Marion County is all groundwater from the Floridan Aquifer. The City of Ocala has five primary wells that go down approximately 250 feet into the upper aquifer, with only two or three used in any one day. When the water, known as “raw water,” is pumped, it goes to the lime softening plant. Jeff explains that lime kills any bacteria found in the raw water. It also coats the pipes the water runs through, which helps deter corrosion that can happen over time, and helps soften the water.

“The raw water has about a 320 to 340 parts per million (ppm) ion concentration. Lime reduces that to about 120 ppm,” explains Jeff. “You’ll know your water is ‘hard’ if your soap just doesn’t seem to get soapy,” he says, noting that those on private wells without water softening systems experience “hard water.”

Once the water is softened, it goes through a filtering system to remove any floating particles, then makes its way to storage tanks where it is treated with chlorine, which acts as a disinfectant. The final step, which is one that some people may find controversial, is a fluoride treatment.

“You can read online forever about the pros and cons of fluoride treatments,” says Jeff. “But fluoride is found to be one of the top 10 accomplishments of mankind according to the CDC,” he says. He notes that in some parts of the world, the water is full of fluoride, which isn’t healthy, but in Florida, that isn’t an issue. Fluoride is used in items such as toothpaste and mouthwashes to help prevent tooth decay. The fluoridation of water is the controlled addition of fluoride to public water and can also reduce tooth decay.

“We work hard to make the water as safe for our citizens as we can,” he says. “The City of Ocala keeps its water at a fluoride level of 0.7 milligrams per liter, which is the ‘optimum level’ according to the CDC.”

Tankless water heaters are not for everyone. How many people are in your home? How is your house wired? What kind of investment are you willing to make? These are all things to take into consideration when choosing your water heater. There's a common misconception that the "instantaneous" tankless water heaters are substantially more efficient. That is not exactly accurate. Most people do not want to wait for hot water, nor do they want to run out of it while showering. Furthermore, they do not want either of those things cost them an arm and a leg.

The Cons of Going Tankless:

The cost of a tankless water heater is typically more than that of a traditional water heater. It costs anywhere from $500 to $1,000 more just for the purchase, not including installation. (Which is sometimes included.)

A person living alone and using less water will see smaller savings. Families and those with high water needs will benefit the most.

Tankless heaters need to be de-limed by a professional about once a year. Traditional models require little, if any, maintenance over their lifetime.

Electric models need most homeowners to spend much money towards electrical upgrades to accommodate the system before installation. This can add as much as $5,000 to the total purchase price.

The Pros: Tankless models save space, offer longer warranties and can save you money in the bigger picture.

Homeowners can see benefits of a tankless water heater well beyond energy savings. These heaters save space with a slim and compact design, the last longer and are better for the environment because a rusty tank does not end up in the landfill. You will avoid having breakdown issues with water on the floor, and tankless water heaters typically have a longer warranty, about 15 years. Traditional water heaters can come with up to a six-year warranty.

Is a tankless water heater right for you?Here are some things to consider:

Demand: Do you need a unit to heat water in just one bathroom or the entire house?

Type: Consider the requirements. An electric water heater model will need the proper amperage, voltage, and a circuit breaker. Gas powered models need to be vented to the outside.

Location: They must be within 50 feet of a power source, and can be mounted on an interior or exterior wall.

Life expectancy: Most tankless water heaters last more than 20 years — about double the lifespan of standard storage water heaters.

Installation: Hire only a master plumber or a licensed HVAC contractor to install it. Often, the installation is included when you purchase a unit from a dealer.

Cost: For a family, a tankless water heater that uses natural gas not only lowers your electric bill, but you can qualify for up to a $300 federal tax rebate.

The fact is, the biggest danger of DIY handiwork is that when not handled properly, the consequences are irreversible.

A lot of DIY home improvement projects should never happen while you're in a hurry and without a proper plan. Something as seemingly small and straightforward as forgetting to turn off the water main, using the wrong tools for the project or even just attempting to DIY repair a dishwasher or garbage disposal can result in massive flooding and water damage to your floors, walls, cabinets, and ceilings. Not to mention, the results of water mixing with electricity can be deadly.

A lot of people feel like because fixing a running toilet seems so simple, we forget how truly destructive, and devastating water damage can be. Add the electrical component, and you have a recipe for disaster.

Here are five handyman jobs that should be left to the pros:

Wiring - When you decide to work on projects that involve electrical wires, you run the risk of getting shocked or affecting the polarity of electrical wires. You could lose power because of a surge or shorted outlets.

Plumbing - While some plumbing projects are simple, there are others that could cause leaks or breaks in the bathroom or kitchen. Even a small leak can lead to rot, mold or structural problems. Incorrectly performed plumbing work could also cause severe drainage issues and stoppage.

Permits - When it's time to make upgrades or remodels to your home's plumbing, electricity or structure, you may need a permit for it. While homeowners can obtain their permits, it's better to leave this to contractors who understand the permitting process and know the correct permits to get to pass inspections. If you work without a license or with incorrect permits, you could receive hefty fines from the city or county.

Installing a gas fueled appliance - Appliances that run on gas like water heaters, clothes dryers or ovens must be installed by a professional who is familiar with the proper fittings, connections, and detection of gas leaks. A single loose connection could result in a carbon monoxide leaks in your home or eventual sparks and eruptions.

Home Additions - Leave changes to the home's structural foundation to the pros. Walls may need to come down, wiring and plumbing will need to be properly extended, and procedure will need to be followed to ensure there are no leaks or other issues.

In many homes today, garbage disposals are a convenience and take some of the extra demanding work out of housekeeping; but if not used correctly, a broken garbage disposal can be a costly repair and a massive headache in the kitchen.

The best rule of thumb to remember when it comes to your garbage disposal is never put anything in the disposal that is not a biodegradable food. If you’re in doubt, it’s best to throw it out.

Here are some other common mistakes that occurmade when using a garbage disposal, and it’s important to remember to avoid them to keep your garbage disposal in proper working order:

Don’ts:

Never grind metal, plastic, glass, cigarette butts or even a piece of paper. It’s not food and therefore should not go in the disposal.

Never grind anything flammable or combustible.

Never pour oil, fat, or grease into the garbage disposal, especially if followed by hot water. The hot water causes the oil to liquefy, then cool and accumulate or build up in the disposal causing a clogged drain or pipe.

Never grind materials (even food materials) that are extremely fibrous. Examples include celery stalks, artichokes, corn husks or onion skins. Fibers from these materials can tangle into the mechanics of the disposal causing the motor to jam and the drain to become blocked.

Never grind animal bones

Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or drain cleaners that can damage the disposal’s blades or pipes.

Never grind expandable food like pasta or rice. As they do in the pot with water, foods like rice and pasta expand in your kitchen’s pipes or garbage disposal and can cause the disposal to jam or become clogged.

Do’s:

Use citrus to keep things smelling fresh and clean: Before you toss out citrus fruit peels, place a couple of pieces in your garbage disposal. Run water down the drain while running the disposal. The rough peels clean the blades, while citrus oils naturally freshen things up.

Throw in some ice cubes. Running water and placing a handful of ice cubes into your garbage disposal will help to “de-gunk” the blades and remove odor-causing food particles.

Use these and other tips through your own research or contact the professionals at Kost Plumbing for more helpful plumbing tips. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out. You may consider printing this list and posting it near your home’s disposal for your entire family to use as a list of “garbage disposal rules."

Hard water is a very common issue faced by many homeowners and renters who live in high sediment areas. Your water can be considered “hard” when elevated levels of dissolved minerals are present in it. Although hard water is not unhealthy for human consumption, it can damage and even ruin your plumbing. This damage can happen to your hot water heater, dishwasher, washing machine, and your other household appliances.

If you think you have hard water, here are a few solutions for combating the problem:

Household VinegarPlacing small fixtures (like shower heads) into a bowl of hot household vinegar will dissolve the calcium deposit in about an hour. Distilled vinegar can be used to combat the white film and spot problems on your appliances and dishes. It will kill mold, bacteria, and germs as well as clean your dishes through regular wash cycles.

Reduce the TemperatureHot water encourages calcium to build up within your water heater. Reducing the temperature of your water heater will help delay and even reduce that accumulation. It is also important to have your water heater periodically flushed to avoid having sediment clogging it up.

The Right SoapTo reduce hard water deposits on your glasses and dishes, you can use a product similar to Lime-Away. These kinds of products work to remove years of buildup, stains, and film from hard water. For soap scum that is built up through the combination of soap and hard water, rinse with a 1:3 mixture of apple cider vinegar and filtered water should do the trick.

Household Water SoftenersThe best solution to protect all of the pipes and appliances in your home over the long term solution is investing in a hig h-quality whole house water softener. There are salt-free water softeners that are environmentally friendly and remove the hardness in your home’s water without harsh chemicals or salt compound.

The first question to ask yourself is whether or not your home really needs better drinking water. A water filter is only useful if it takes bad stuff out of your water without putting any bad stuff back in. If it is not doing its job, it could become a bed for bacterial growth or chemical treatments. This could be worse than just drinking the tap water. Don't rush out and buy a water filter simply because it is trendy. Research is important.

Let's take a look at water filter options for cleaner, softer and tastier water.

Carbon Filtration

If you have concerns related to taste and odor, a carbon filter may be your best solution. Carbon filtration relies on carbon adsorbing contaminants onto its surface. During the manufacturing of activated carbon, the surface area is maximized. Consumer Reports recognizes the Sears Kenmore 38454 Undersink Water Filter with the Best Buy Award this year.1

Water Softening

If you have extremely hard water, softening the water is your best choice. The energy and material costs associated with water softening are offset by longer appliance life. You’ll use less detergent for effective cleaning and your clothes will no longer be at risk of discoloration from hard water. A cation exchange softener is usually installed at the point of entry to your home. It removes "hard" ions calcium and magnesium from the water. It then replaces them with sodium and potassium.

Risk of Disease

Have your home water tested regularly. Test results could show the presence of harmful levels of bacteria or parasites in your water. These include Cryptosporidium and Giardia. If these are present, you need to take action. Chlorine and other chemical treatments are somewhat effective, but they have side effects. Filtration of these pathogens can be difficult due to their very small size. However, Ultraviolet treatment is effective for killing unwanted bacterial organisms. The NSF has certified the Trojan UV Max and the UV Pure Hallett systems as the only two technologies for Class A Disinfection Performance. This is vital in the battle against disease-causing bugs. UV systems will not remove heavy metals and other contaminants.

When it comes to day to day living, there are aspects of your home that often get ignored and taken for granted until something major occurs as the result of neglect. The most common aspect? Plumbing. While an overflowing toilet may come to mind when you think of “plumbing mistakes”, there are actually other areas in your home’s plumbing where simple mistakes can end up being quite costly in the long run.

These include:

Improper usage of your garbage disposal

It’s tempting while in the frenzy of trying to prepare dinner for your family to want to turn around and pour grease down the garbage disposal assuming this is safe. It’s not. Pouring grease, oil or fat into your garbage disposal or drain will cause the grease to accumulate over time and eventually impede proper flow through your garbage disposal or clog your drain. The same rule applies to coffee grounds, fibrous materials or even hot water following cooked food. You can, however, grind foods with scouring action like egg shells, small chicken or fish bones or small fruit pits. These will help clean some of the accumulated or sticky particles that may be built up in your disposal. Check out this blog from our friends at Pilgrim Plumbing up in Boston on What Not To Put In Your Garbage Disposal.

Using too much drain cleaner

When used conservatively and as directed for the specific kind of clog you’re attempting to clear, drain cleaners can be quite effective and relatively harmless to drains. When used with abandon, however, they can corrode some of the materials found in the drain, resulting in buildup and an even worse clog.

Pouring chemicals into the septic system

Naturally occurring waste eating bacteria are crucial to your septic system’s environment. Pouring bleach, ammonia, drain cleaner or other harsh chemicals into the septic system interrupts these natural bacteria resulting in chemical contamination of ground waters and even nearby ponds or lakes. Treatment chemicals designed specifically to treat septic systems should be okay, provided you specifically follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Flushing foreign objects down the toilet

While it’s fun to look back on childhood movies that taught us flushing anything down the toilet makes it disappear forever, it’s just not realistic. When you flush something down the toilet, instead of going out into oblivion somewhere, the object is sent into about a 3 inch pipe, which leads to another 3 inch pipe which leads to the drain pipe for your entire home. When something not designed to be flushed down the toilet is sent into this pipe, it can cause an obstruction that backs up the entire plumbing system in your home. It’s best to just throw it away.

A lot of homeowners only think about our plumbing and pipes when something has gone terribly wrong with them. Summertime, however is the perfect time to take a closer look at your plumbing and perform some routine plumbing maintenance to keep it in good working order while the weather is warmer and your plumbing use differentiates from use in the fall and winter.

Here are some helpful summertime plumbing maintenance tips to get you started:

Begin in the laundry room:

When was the last time you pulled out your washing machine and took a good look at your hoses? While washing machine hoses are usually an “out of sight, out of mind” plumbing maintenance issue, they can be potentially devastating should they burst or leak. We recommend replacing your washing machine hoses every five years (maximum) using braided stainless steel hoses rather than rubber hoses (which are more vulnerable to leaking, cracking or bursting).

Take a look in the kitchen:

A fun way to make some noise and sharpen the blades in your kitchen sink’s garbage disposal is to throw a few ice cubes down the disposal and let the blades go to work. If you think their may be a gloppy backup in the drain, use a combination of ice with rock salt or simple household vinegar and let cold water run in the drain for five to ten seconds.

Your dishwasher shouldn’t be forgotten either: check the connections and make sure they are all tightened and leak free. The last thing you want interrupting your summer is a flooded kitchen!

Avoid paying for energy you’re not using:

Paying to heat water you’re not using by leaving your water heater on if you leave town doesn’t make good sense. Save energy and cost by turning your water heater down when you go away for more than a day. Also, take a good look at the edges around your water heater: if you inherited an existing water heater with the purchase of your home, learn how to read the label on your water heater to determine it’s age and whether or not you should consider replacing it.

A little bit of summertime preventative plumbing maintenance goes a long way to keep you stress-free all year round. For these and other helpful plumbing maintenance tips, contact Kost Plumbing today!

If you have a running toilet in your home, you may be wasting countless gallons of water a day. But take heart, most often it’s an easy fix and Kost Plumbing here to help.

First, it’s important to understand the science behind how your toilet works: Using gravity, when you press down on the lever to flush the toilet, it raises a rubber flapper in the toilet’s tank, allowing the water to run from the tank into the bowl. Once the water in the tank is used to fill the bowl, the rubber flapper closes, allowing water to refill the tank. The tank water filling is usually the running water you hear immediately after flushing, as it slowly rises until the float closes the toilet’s intake.

To determine which part of the toilet might be leaking or causing the water to constantly run, carefully remove the tank lid and identify your toilet flush lever, the aforementioned rubber flapper (should be connected to the flush lever), the pump that refills the toilet’s tank after it empties and the float that lowers and raises with the water level, letting the pump know when to stop as well as the overflow tube, which determines the high water level in the tank.

Commonly, it is the chain that’s connecting the rubber flapper to the flush lever that is your culprit. If it’s too short, too long, or disconnected, it’s not allowing the rubber flapper to close properly and needs to be replaced.

Another common issue is a faulty or deteriorated flapper, if you discover buildup, breaks, or deterioration on the flapper, you can try to clean the flapper or replace it completely.

One of the last things you can check is to see that the float is in the correct position, allowing the right amount of water to fill up the tank. When a toilet is flushed, the water in the tank should stop filling up just as it reaches the overflow pipe. You can test this by flushing the toilet a few times to see where the water is reaching and adjusting the float accordingly.

All of these methods are simple solutions in the short term, but if your issue continues it could be an indicator of a larger plumbing problem. The professionals at Kost Plumbing are here to answer your questions and meet all of your plumbing needs, big and small. For solutions that last, contact us today.

When it comes to PEX Piping vs Copper, unless you’re a plumber, you may not even know the difference or which piping is better for your home. So, maybe it’s time to increase your basic knowledge of plumbing in order to know what you’re getting and if it’s something you truly want. Once you’ve got the basics down, you’ll know what to request from your plumber and why.

Let’s start with what PEX Piping is. PEX Piping is basically cross linked polyethylene pipe. What this means is that after the material goes through several processes, it becomes durable enough to handle extreme hot or cold temperatures and what’s called “creep deformation” (that occurrs from extended exposure to stress). It also resists chemical attacks from alkalines, acids and other toxins. These factors all make PEX piping an excellent piping solution for cold and hot water plumbing systems. PEX piping is also very flexible and adapts effortlessly to temperatures from below freezing all the way up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

PEX Piping is also better for your budget. It’s an easy material for your plumber to install and with its crack resistance and fewer joints, it brings your plumbing costs down. It has fewer fittings, less chance of leaks, can be used along with metal or PVC Piping, and can have a pressure balancing system.

Now Copper: On the beneficial side, Copper resists corrosion and is not affected by ultraviolet rays, which means it can be useful for outside plumbing needs. This differs from PEX pipes, which can be affected by ultraviolet rays and therefore should usually not be used outside. On the down side, however, copper will corrode from the pH of the water if the water becomes too acidic or too basic for the copper pipes.

Copper piping can freeze and break during winter weather, it has become more expensive and more difficult to install, raising your plumbing costs and with corrosion, the higher levels of copper seeping into your water will give your water a metallic taste.

It’s our hope that these comparisons have given you a better basic understanding and knowledge of the differences between PEX and copper piping, giving you the opportunity to make the best decision for yourself.

Technology advances every day and reaches into every area of our lives, and our bathroom toilets are no different. With so many new innovations, even your toilet can become a more convenient part of technology in your home. Here are just a few of the newest toilet trends for 2016:

Veil™ one-piece elongated dual-flush wall-hung toilet with Reveal® Quiet-Close™ seat and 2"x6" in-wall tank and carrier system - With its concealed tank and minimal footprint, the innovative Veil wall-hung toilet saves up to 12 inches of precious bathroom space over larger floor-mount models. The mounting hardware is completely concealed, giving Veil a sleek, seamless look that is incredibly easy to clean. And with dual-flush technology, this high-efficiency toilet can save as much as 6,000 gallons of water annually over a traditional 1.6-gallon toilet.

San Souci™ Touchless Comfort Height® one-piece compact elongated 1.28 gpf toilet with AquaPiston® flushing technology, concealed trapway - The San Souci one-piece toilet offers a sleek, contemporary design combined with touchless flush. Just hold your hand over the tank sensor to activate the flush. No handle to touch means fewer germs to pick up or leave behind. This toilet features innovative AquaPiston technology, a patented flush engine that delivers a fast, powerful, and virtually plug-free flush. A 1.28-gallon flush provides significant water savings of up to 16,500 gallons per year, compared to a 3.5-gallon toilet, without sacrificing performance.

Cimarron® Comfort Height® one-piece elongated 1.28 gpf toilet with AquaPiston® flush technology and left-hand trip leverWith its versatile, fresh design, this one-piece Cimarron toilet matches a range of contemporary and classic decors. The elongated bowl offers extra room, with seating at the height of a standard chair for ease of use. A 1.28-gallon flush provides significant water savings of up to 16,500 gallons per year, compared to a 3.5-gallon toilet, without sacrificing performance. This toilet features innovative AquaPiston technology, a patented flush engine that delivers a fast, powerful, and virtually plug-free flush.

Numi® Intelligent Comfort Height® skirted one-piece elongated dual-flush toilet (less remote)TThe Numi toilet combines unmatched design and technology to bring you the finest in personal comfort and cleansing. KOHLER's most advanced toilet now offers personalized settings that let you fine-tune every option to your exact preferences, from ambient colored lighting to wireless Bluetooth®* music sync capability to the heated seat and foot warmer. Play your favorite music and podcasts - simply stream wirelessly with any device enabled with Bluetooth technology, store MP3 files to the SD card, or plug in your device using the auxiliary cable. Other upgrades include Power-Save mode for energy efficiency, emergency flush for power outages, and an intuitive touch-screen remote (sold separately). From its striking form to its exceptional water efficiency, the Numi toilet marks a new standard of excellence in the bathroom.

We’ve all been there. Visiting a relative or friend, you use the restroom, and somehow the toilet just won't flush. This can feel so embarrassing, but don’t stress! With this how-to, they’ll never know unless you tell them.

Is the water about to overflow? Find the shut off valve to the toilet, turn it to the right, and voila! Most of the time, this cuts the water right off. However, if it doesn’t, don’t keep flushing! If you continue to flush, the water will overflow.

Now, grab the plunger. Almost all bathrooms have a plunger, and hopefully the one you’re in is no exception. The key to unclogging the toilet lies in the way you plunge. Be sure to have a solid suction seal, and put force on the plunger. Try not to break the seal of the plunger to the bowl. Once you’re sure the blockage has been cleared, you can turn the water back on, flush, and get out of there! Crisis averted.

If your host does not have a plunger in the bathroom, or these instructions don’t work, don’t feel embarrassed. We’ve all been there. Quietly pull them aside, ask for a plunger, and take care of the issue. If you don’t make a big deal about it, neither will they.

Sometimes though, the problem might not be your fault (ha ha), but something more serious might be happening. If you are unsure about the cause of your clogged toilet drains, please give Kost Plumbing a call. We service all of Marion, Sumter and Lake Counties!

Is preventative maintenance on your home really something you should be concerned about? The short answer is yes. We have checkups at the doctor to keep from getting sick, we have our cars maintained to prevent them from breaking down, so why not do the same for your house?

Simple preventative maintenance on your home and save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run. Many small things that are going wrong in your house could end up being a lot bigger later and turn into large repair projects. Also there are many things happening within your walls and around your foundation that is invisible to the average home owner.

Regular maintenance such as cutting the grass, cleaning the gutters, fixing a few odd and ends is generally the responsibility of the homeowner or landlord. There are some things the average homeowner would never see or even think to check, such as:

cracks in the driveway, foundation,walls and tiles

weather stripping on windows

leaks in, under, and around the house

cracks, discolorations, damage and signs of leaking on ceiling

caulking around sinks and tubs

loose carpeting and warped floors

exposed wires, short circuits

heating and cooling system

water damage, missing shingles on roof

evidence of mold

test smoke detectors

The list goes on but the major things that should be addressed is plumbing, electrical work and walls and foundation. Kost Plumbing can help with any plumbing and handyman services you may need. Give us a call for a preventative home maintenance check today.

Even in Sunny Florida, with colder winter months approaching, the possibility exists for the pipes in your home to freeze during the winter months. Frozen pipes can cause a huge inconvenience and a pretty penny to repair. So how do you prevent your pipes from freezing or thaw ones that are frozen already?

Step 1: Wrap heater tapes around the pipes or use a heated reflector lampIn order for heater tape to properly work, it needs to be wrapped around the pipes before insulating them. The heater tapes work by using a thermostat that is built in. Be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions that come with the heater tape you purchase as some heater tapes cannot be used with insulation.

Step 2: Keep your water pipes dry and insulate them from the cold moving airYou can purchase inexpensive pipe insulators at your local hardware store. By itself, insulation doesn’t completely prevent freezing but it slows down the transfer rate of heat to cold. Be sure to know the location of your water main shut off valve in the event that you need it. Leaks are common after the pipes are thawed.

Step 3: Let the water run from the faucets at just a constant, slow dripBegin with a slow drip of hot water and combine a slow drip of cold water in the kitchen. Bathroom water can be cold as long as it is not freezing.

Step 4: If pipes are frozen and need to be thawed, first check the pipes in the frozen areaCopper or plastic pipes may freeze and break open, causing leaks and flooding in the area of the freeze. If the pipe appears to be busted, leaking or has a split in it, contact a plumber right away. All metal pipes may need to be welded and the repair of these pipes is best left to a professional.

Step 5: Use extreme caution when heating the area of a freeze or the pipes themselves with an electronic heating device like a hand held hair dryer or heat lampSpace heaters, hair dryers and heat lamps generate very high temperatures that can cause certain materials to combust. Never leave any of these appliances unattended and always call a plumber when in doubt.

When taking a shower there's nothing worse that a clogged drain causing water to collect at your feet. I mean you wanted to take a shower, not a bath, right? There are some simple tricks besides pouring a gallon of Drain-O down the pipes to help get that clog unstuck.

Use a plunger - Believe it or not these are handy for unclogging shower drains and toilets. Remove the shower drain cover then put them plunger over the hole while running water over it until the rubber part is submerged. Plunge it and see if that loosens the clog.

Boiling water - This is a great natural way without using harsh chemicals. Carefully pour the hot water down the drain. You may want to use a mixture of 1/3 cup baking soda and 1/3 to see if that give better results.

Snake out the clog - A snake can be purchased from any hardware store. Carefully snake it down the drain then wind it around to loosen the clog. The debris should clear once the snake is out.

Use liquid drain cleaner - There are a lot of good products out there. Make sure they are safe to use in all pipes as as for residential use.

Call a professional - When all else fails and the stubborn clog just won't budge give Kost Plumbing a call and we will have it fix in no time!

What Others Say About Kost Plumbing

I do now know where to start, your prices and plumbing expertise are exceptional. I also appreciate your deck building and carpenter skills, not to mention that outstanding kitchen remodel. With your card I do not need anybody's "List" or any "Referral Program". Keep up the good work!

Chuck F., Reddick, FL

We had Kost Plumbing come out on weeknight when we had no water and he fixed the problem THAT NIGHT! We were amazed at his great work ethic and honest prices that he will be our Plumber for Life!!

Susan J., Ocala, FL

Thank you so much for all the help and support you provided when we had that leak! I couldn't have asked for a better job or price and the fact that you got it fixed so quickly that we were able to keep up our busy schedules without hardly missing a beat was AWESOME!!! Thanks again.

John D., Citra, FL

Thomas has done numerous jobs for me, and his work is always exceptional. He is very dependable and is willing to go out of his way to make sure the job is done right. In my opinion you could not hire a more professional or honest person.

Barbara A., Ocala, FL

Kost's Korner

When you are shopping for a new home in Florida, it is smart to have everything inspected. You can also examine any plumbing concerns yourself before you finish the deal and move in if you know what to look for.

Unless you’re a plumber, you may not even know the difference between PEX Piping and Copper, or which piping is better for your home. Here, we hope to increase your basic knowledge of these plumbing options to help you know what you’re getting and if it’s what you truly want. Once you’ve got the basics down, you’ll know what to request from your plumber and why.